What's in a name?

I tend to wonder what the point is in defining oneself as gay, straight, trans gender...  I agree that sometimes we need labels - descriptive words to further explain actions.

"I am attracted to women, therefore I am a lesbian"

Fine.  Do it up. But like in my first posting about coming out at work I know that sometimes a name, or label changes the way people see you, look at you, talk to and about you.   I get it, we all do. Finding the courage to come out - explain yourself, it's a good thing I think.

So when I  get an email about Glenn Beck shooting off his mouth AGAIN I have to laugh. Don't get me wrong, I don't catch the guy's show.  I think I should just to see what the heck will come out of his mouth next. But apparently this time he went off about Barack Obama's first name.  What a dumb arguement.

Here's the segment provided by Media Matters.  As you can see it's the main story on their page. But to be fair he usually is - not that he probably doesn't deserve it.



Ok so as a child Barack Obama wanted to fit in and changes his name to Barry.  But he doesn't CHANGE it back.  His name IS Barack.  Deal with it.  It's not like he ran for President as Barry or even John Obama.  We all knew what his name was and he was still elected.  Sorry Beck your candidate just didn't have the votes.

As to whether or not President Obama has terrorist ties or a secret agenda...who knows. Honestly - we don't but we also don't know the true agenda of most people.

And lets face it the Obama Biden logos do look like they're saying Osama bin Laden if you look quickly.  Oh don't tell me you didn't see it too!
It still doesn't mean our President is a terrorist...I don't think.

Anyway the point is Glenn Beck straighten out man (I say  that figuratively). You can be a pundit on TV and radio - do your thing but have a valid argument with something to stand on! Not this bull shit "he changed his name" argument.  I get you lack traditional education, but that's no excuse.

I respect anyone whose opinion or argument has a solid basis even if we completely disagree. I think most people do. But seriously  - this guy?  How does he still have a job?  Thoughts?

Don't Ask Don't Tell Don't Fly?

Wait what? Did I read this correctly?

The Washington Post in a breaking news frenzy, released an alert stating that during his address, the President will speak to appealing the military's "don't ask don't tell policy"....Holy crap!

I know the President spoke about this several times before, and it's been a semi hot topic in the last year but I'm still shocked that the President will choose this time to address such a serious issue.  I applaud him for doing so but I'll be interested in seeing what will actually happen when or if the policy is repealed.

I think any red blooded American (gay or straight) at one time toys with the idea of joining the military. I myself was dogged by the Navy (of all branches the Navy?!)  and honestly contemplated it for about half a second until I realized not only would I lose all autonomy BUT I'd have to be in the closet AGAIN...no thanks I'll pass.

So, if this is repealed what does it mean?  I'm assuming that gays would be able to serve openly - have partners, be themselves without fearing a dishonorable discharge, among other things. And with that being said, wouldn't this do wonders for the military? Granted I know there will be A LOT of growing pains (can you imagine Major so-and-so having to tolerate a queen with a lisp who just happens to be the best sniper on the base?  LOVE IT!)

But I think this will open the doors to so many people who have refused to consider military service if their relationships weren't recognized. Talk about the perfect way to build the ever straggling military.  Bets are hundreds of women "with strong throwing arms" - will finally join the cause to protect and serve our country.

Plus all the service men and women who are gay, can continue to be so AND keep their jobs. Check this out. According to The Examiner the military is actually losing money because of Don't Ask Don't Tell.
 Kelvin Lynch writes about a recent UCLA finding:

"Since its inception in 1994, the “Don’t Ask/Don’t Tell” policy has cost the military between $290 million to more than a half a billion dollars.  The military spends an estimated $22,000 to $43,000 per person to replace those discharged under DADT. In other words, 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell" has never worked, and never will."

Interesting to look at Don't Ask Don't Tell from a financial standpoint...

Well I'll be looking forward to watching the address and am intrigued to see how the President words this suggested appeal. But the main question is - will the repeal actually happen and if so, does it make the army more appealing to you?